

Best for beginner divers, 5-16m, boat entry, strong current.
Grouper Island, located 8 kilometres off Emerald Beach, is a reef site accessible only by boat. Divers explore depths between 5 and 16 metres, with an average depth of 14 metres. The site features rocky structures and plate coral formations. Marine life observed here includes wobbegong sharks, green morays, wrasses, goatfish, sea stars, sea hares, snails, and various nudibranchs such as the splendid goniobranch and Bennett's hypselodoris. Conditions vary, with visibility ranging from 8 to 35 metres and water temperatures between 20C and 26C. Divers must manage strong, unpredictable currents and surge near the reef. Boat traffic is a potential hazard at the surface.
-30.15942, 153.22559
Current can strengthen quickly at this site, so aim to dive on an incoming tide when conditions tend to settle and visibility improves. Make sure your buoyancy is comfortable before descending, as surge near the reef can push inexperienced divers onto the coral.
The site is accessible via boat charter, typically departing from the Coffs Harbour International Marina. The boat ride is approximately 30-40 minutes.
Recorded at this site
Depth
5-16m
Visibility
8-35m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
20-26°C
Current
Strong
Typical Dive
50 min
Best Time
Year-round
Divers regularly encounter wobbegong sharks, green morays, wrasses, goatfish, sea stars, sea hares, snails, and nudibranchs including the splendid goniobranch and Bennett's hypselodoris.
Yes, the site is suitable for beginners due to its accessible depths, though divers should be comfortable with buoyancy control to manage surge and strong currents.
The depth ranges from 5 to 16 metres, with an average depth of 14 metres.
This is a boat dive located 8 kilometres from the shore; a boat is required to reach the site.
The site can be dived year-round, with water temperatures peaking in February and March and reaching their lowest in July and August.
Diving at Grouper Island in Coffs Harbour requires the following certifications: Advanced. Always dive within your training limits.
Yes, equipment rental is available at or near Grouper Island in Coffs Harbour. Contact local dive operators for specific gear availability and prices.
A 5mm wetsuit is recommended for diving at Grouper Island in Coffs Harbour. Water temperatures range from 20°C to 26°C.
Grouper Island in Coffs Harbour can have strong currents. Advanced experience with drift diving and current navigation is recommended.
Visibility at Grouper Island in Coffs Harbour typically ranges from 8 metres to 35 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.